Hard work pays off at Cleckheaton

Captain Tom Rice put last weekend’s 42-22 win at home to Cleakheaton down to their power plays and set pieces.
The visitors gave an encouraging account of themselves early in the fixture before Gary Pearce’s side established control of the game to take five valuable points.
Rice said it wasn’t the perfect display with room for improvement but was thankful for the win.
“Last Saturday was always going to be a tough game.
“Though the score line doesn’t reflex it, playing against Cleckheaton is always a tough encounter.
“They always turn up with a very aggressive nature and Saturday was no exception and they turned up to the ferns ground strong and confident.
“We have been working really hard over the previous week on our set piece and power plays which worked really well.
“The game was a bit frantic in the first 20 minutes as we conceded too many penalties to piggy back them down the field and give them good field position.
“After that we found our stride and were able to put the game out of reach from the young spirited cleck side by scoring seven tries.”
Hull’s victory was secured by a strong forwards performance that saw the starting front row of Mike Jobling, Tom Rice and Stephen Quigley (pictured) all crossing for tries. It was Quigley’s first try in senior rugby in the National Leagues. Hitetah, Harding and a second for Birch completed the scoring.
Rice hopes his side can put in a better performance at Morley this weekend in a re-arranged fixture.
Victory will keep the pressure on second placed Rossendale with four games to play.
“Although it was a good win for the team we are striving to be better week in week out,” Rice said.
“There is a lot more to come from this side.
“Hopefully we’ll get to see it in the next few crucial games.”